Dive-site story
Running parallel to the shoreline off Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Ridge forms part of South Florida's linear barrier reef system. The reef line features a defined western ledge with small undercuts, pockets, and scattered coral heads where marine life congregates out of the north-flowing Gulf Stream current. Typical diving here is conducted as a relaxed drift, allowing divers to follow the low-relief structure while watching for resident sea turtles and nurse sharks resting on the sandy edge.
Continuous coral ledge with undercut ledges sheltering resting nurse sharks
Healthy growth of barrel sponges, sea whips, and sea fans across the hardbottom
Reliable sightings of green and loggerhead sea turtles cruising along the reef tract
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Calmer seas and the warmest water temperatures occur in late spring through early autumn.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse SharkGinglymostoma cirratum | Common | ||||||||||||
| Green Sea TurtleChelonia mydas | Common | ||||||||||||
| French AngelfishPomacanthus paru | Common | ||||||||||||
| Southern StingrayHypanus americanus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Great BarracudaSphyraena barracuda | Common |
Marine forecast
